Winter has settled in. The temperatures are low, and we’ve even had a snowfall or two so far. Pagans, Wiccans, and other cultures also have a sabbat coming up that marks the halfway mark between the winter solstice and spring equinox. It’s called Imbolc, and it’s celebrated from February 1 through February 2.
Based on Celtic tradition, Imbolc celebrations date back to the pre-Christian era. The holiday centers around Brigid, a pagan goddess of fertility, poetry, crafts, and prophecy. Brigid was worshiped by the Filid class of poets and historians among Celts in ancient Ireland and Britain. For some Christian traditions, she is also known as Saint Brigid, a historical person whose life was chronicled by monks as far back as the 8th Century.
Today, Imbolc is celebrated in many different ways, with a strong connection to nature, cleansing, and the renewal of life and Spring. Like most pagan holidays, it has a rich history and many traditions. So, we have gathered a few of the most common ways to celebrate Imbolc today–whether you do so privately or with a group.
1.) Create a Brigid Doll
One of the traditional ways to celebrate Imbolc is to create a Brigid doll or Brideog. These dolls are traditionally hung above the doors of people’s homes. They are made with straw or rushes twisted into the shape of a doll. It’s wrapped in white fabric, representing a dress, and decorated with the first flowers of the year, greenery from the garden, and many other beautiful things.
2.) Create a Brigid Cross
Another crafty tradition for celebrating this holiday is the creation of a Brigid cross. It’s typically made from straw, soaked overnight, and woven around a frame made of sticks. If a child is making the cross, they might want to use pipe cleaners instead. The styles of the crosses vary, including some having 3 or more arms. These crosses can be hung in any part of the home. Children’s crosses are traditionally hung over their beds.
3.) Spring Cleaning
You have probably heard the term spring cleaning, and you may know someone who does it traditionally. The idea originates from Imbolc traditions. The cleaning is usually done before Imbolc Eve, and it is part of the cleansing and renewal this time of year brings.
Get rid of anything in your home that’s causing clutter, and stagnating the energy. Scrub surfaces thoroughly. If you can tolerate the cold for a bit, open your windows just long enough to get some fresh air in and move the stagnant air out.
4.) Visit a Body of Water
Imbolc is traditionally a time for visiting holy water, which is a spring or well. The water helps purify and bring fertility to our dreams. This tradition is a great way to go on an adventure by yourself or with family or friends. If the water is clean, feel free to splash some on yourself to feel the energy and magic of the water.
You might even dip a ribbon in the water, and then hang it on a nearby tree. Trees located near water are sacred, and the ribbon can help carry messages of hope and healing.
Find Imbolc Supplies in Our Store
At Wildhair Studios Rock Shop, we are here for all of your metaphysical needs. We carry a variety of items you can use to celebrate Imbolc and anything else you are observing. Some of our featured items include cleansing tools to help clear the energy in your home and aid spring cleaning. Come and visit us today to learn more.
The Rock Shop, sells healing crystals, books, aura cleansing salt soaps, aura scrubs, aromatherapy, and candles for any of your ritual needs. Contact the shop or stop in for more info. Susan is a Licensed Spiritual Healer Life Coach, Reiki Master, Certified Ho’ Oponopono Instructor, and Light Worker. She and her husband own the Nice Rock Shop at 311 Broadway Street, Paducah KY. Subscribe to her YouTube channel, Nice Rock Shop, follow her on social media, or contact her at NiceRockShop@gmail.com. The website is NiceRockShop.com.
Blog post by guest writer, Jessica Wettig Hendrix
©Copyright 2022, Susan K. Edwards NiceRockShop.com
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